Regions at a Glance

Sicily can be divided into four major travel regions — each with its own character, history, and highlights:

Palermo & Northwest

For whom: Culture fans, foodies, city explorers
Sicily's chaotic, fascinating capital Palermo with its Arab-Norman palaces, street markets, and the best street food culture in Europe. Also, the magnificent Cathedral of Monreale, the Cathedral of Cefalù, and the medieval mountain village of Erice. Palermo alone requires at least three days — those who embrace it will be rewarded.

East Coast (Catania, Taormina, Etna)

For whom: Nature lovers, volcano fans, romantics
The most visited region of Sicily: The majestic Etna dominates the coast, Taormina perches on its rocky terrace above the sea, and Catania pulses with Baroque energy and one of the best nightlife scenes in Italy. Also, the Riviera dei Ciclopi with its volcanic rocks and Acireale with its Baroque churches.

Southeast (Syracuse, Noto, Agrigento)

For whom: History enthusiasts, Baroque lovers, connoisseurs
The cradle of Sicilian history: Syracuse (once the most powerful Greek city), the Baroque jewels Noto, Ragusa, and Modica in the Val di Noto (UNESCO World Heritage), and Agrigento with the legendary Valley of the Temples. Also, excellent wines and the chocolate of Modica.

West (Trapani, Marsala, Aegadian Islands)

For whom: Wine lovers, beach lovers, individual travelers
The underrated west: The salt pans of Trapani with their windmills, the Marsala wine cellars, the Doric temple of Segesta, the medieval Erice on the mountain, and the dreamy Aegadian Islands (Favignana, Levanzo). Fewer tourists, more authenticity — and some of the best beaches in Sicily.